Social Security Handbook

1206.1Are dividends on stock and interest
on bonds included as earnings?

Dividends on stock and interest on bonds do not count for Social
Security purposes, unless you receive them in the course of business as a
dealer in stocks or securities.

Note: The term “bond” includes
debentures, notes, certificates and other evidence of indebtedness issued
with interest coupons or in registered form by a corporation. Bonds also
include Government bonds.

Other interest you receive in the course of business does count for
Social Security purposes. For example, if you are a pawnbroker and receive
interest on loans or a merchant and receive interest on accounts or notes
receivable, you must include this interest in computing net earnings from
self-employment.

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